New policy brief by KCSS examines how to integrate the Western Balkans into EU’s cybersecurity mechanisms and policies

Prishtina, Kosovo – September 24, 2024 – In the framework of the project “Advancing Regional Security Cooperation in the Western Balkans: An Advocacy Campaign to Phase-in WB6 into EU’s security and rule of law architecture (ASCEND-WB6), the Kosovar Centre for Security Studies (KCSS) published its latest policy brief, titled "Integration of the Six Countries of the Western Balkans (WB6) in the European Union Agency for Cybersecurity (ENISA)." This timely publication explores the critical need for the Western Balkans to strengthen their cybersecurity capabilities and take steps towards integration into ENISA, the EU’s cybersecurity agency, and it was prepared by experts of the field of European integration and cybersecurity.

Funded by the Open Society Foundations—Western Balkans as part of the IGNITA initiative, the policy brief highlights the importance of enhancing regional cybersecurity cooperation and outlines a roadmap for WB6 countries (Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Serbia) to gradually integrate into ENISA. By joining ENISA, these countries would benefit from increased institutional capacities to manage cyber threats, strengthen regional stability, and further align with EU standards as part of their accession process.

Key Findings:

• The integration of WB6 into ENISA is essential for fostering cybersecurity resilience in the region, particularly in light of the increasing cyber threats.
• The policy brief identifies necessary reforms and steps that each WB6 country must undertake to align with the EU Cybersecurity Act.
• ENISA membership would allow WB6 countries to participate in the European Cybersecurity Certification Framework, strengthening their digital markets and ensuring compliance with EU cybersecurity regulations.

Ramadan Ilazi, Head of research at KCSS and team leader of the ASCEND-WB6 project, stated, "This policy brief emphasizes that cybersecurity is no longer an isolated national issue but a highly important common regional concern. The Western Balkans must act urgently to strengthen their cybersecurity capacities and work to improve their readiness to integrate with EU cybersecurity mechanisms like ENISA. This integration will not only enhance regional security but also pave the way for the WB6’s deeper integration into the European Union."

The policy brief also provides a proposed roadmap for phased integration, highlighting legislative reforms, capacity-building initiatives, and potential cooperation mechanisms with ENISA. The brief serves as a vital resource for policymakers, civil society organizations, and international stakeholders working to enhance cybersecurity in the Western Balkans.

The full policy brief is available for download HERE